Pioneering remote sensing in the USSR. 1. Radiation transfer in the optical wavelength region of the electromagnetic spectrum

Abstract

In this paper a review is presented of the pioneering space research carried out under the leadership of Professor K. Ya. Kondratyev and with his direct participation. Some of his work concerned with radiation transfer in the atmosphere and with remote sensing of the atmosphere and the Earth surface is cited. The achievements of scientists from the USSR and Russia in the field of exploration of the Earth from space, where Kondratyev played a very important role, are described. Fundamental and applied studies in atmospheric optics and other disciplines, connected with modelling of radiation transfer between the atmosphere and the underlying surface and with analysis of data observed from space, have been described in their development from the 1950s up to now. Mathematical modelling is considered as an indispensable tool in preparing and conducting space projects concerning studies of the Earth from space. Different stages are described of the onset and development of the relevant research with the participation of Kondratyev and his successors.

Pioneering remote sensing in the USSR. 2. Global spherical models of radiation transfer

“…In Part 1 (Sushkevich 2008) spherical models of radiation transfer in the atmosphere were mentioned briefly. In this paper further details of the development of these models are given.…”

Preface

“…These were in a wide range of fields related to remote sensing of the atmosphere and the Earth's surface. These areas of research include (a) atmospheric aerosols (Budak and Korkin 2008, Grishin et al 2008, Panchenko et al 2008, Sakerin et al 2008, Yegorov 2008, (b) scattering theory in the atmosphere (Melnikova 2008), (c) radiation balance and radiative transfer (Abakumova et al 2008, Sushkevich 2008a, (d) tropospheric and stratospheric ozone (Chattopadhyay and Chattopadhyay 2008, Evtushevsky et al 2008, Varotsos et al 2008a, 2008b, 2008c, Nerushev 2008 and (e) ecology and climate change (Kozoderov 2008, Sukov et al 2008, Tzanis and Varotsos 2008, Zadorzhny and Dyominov 2008.…”